Public and Commercial Services Union

PCS has limited funds from which we are able to offer financial assistance to PCS members towards fees, books or other costs associated with taking courses of further or higher education.

Who is eligible?

Any PCS member can apply to PCS for financial assistance towards the costs of study. You must show that the course of study is relevant to the union and contributes to trade union activity.

This will obviously depend on both the course and the role(s) you are playing or expect to play in the union.

We also look more favourably upon applications where the member is financing at least part of the study her/himself. You should also apply for other sources of funding before applying to PCS.

PCS will not provide financial assistance if the member has obtained substantial assistance from elsewhere.

Which courses qualify?

Examples of courses that could be supported include:

• Certificate courses in Trade Union Studies for PCS workplace representatives or branch officers who have already been through PCS and TUC training
• City & Guilds teaching qualifications for PCS lay tutors or learning representatives

How much can I apply for?

There is no automatic entitlement to financial assistance from PCS - each application is decided on its own merits. The maximum payment we can make is £100.

When will I find out if I have got any financial help?

Applications should be dealt with within one month of receipt by PCS Organising and Learning Services.

What other sources of funding can I apply for?

If you are looking for a substantial amount of funding - eg for a part-time degree course - you are strongly advised to apply for government-funded support such as a student loan, fee waiver or access funds. You could also apply to your employer.

How do I apply?

If you wish to make an application to PCS for financial assistance please download the application form, complete it and return it to the address on the bottom of the form.

  PCS learning financial assistance form